Under the Pines: Camping at Wellfleet Bay’s Hidden Nature Retreat

Since the 1960s, Mass Audubon members have had the unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the natural world after dark at Wellfleet Bay’s campground. Gently cushioned by a blanket of soft pine needles, you can relax in the peaceful woodland surroundings—savoring the dappled sunlight filtering through the tree canopy by day, and the soft whisper of wind through the branches as dusk settles in.

Grab your tent, pack your bags, and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life at one of our 15 rustic campsites, request your camping reservation today. Everyone in the camping group must be a Mass Audubon member as of May 15, but there’s never been a better time to join. Right now, new memberships are just $35!

Here are 5 of the unforgettable memories you’ll make while camping at Wellfleet Bay.  

Morning Coffee Among the Songbirds

Awaken to the chirps, trills, and whistles of the sanctuary’s resident birds. The Pine Warblers, Black-capped Chickadees, and Tufted Titmice put on a daily show and you can birdwatch right from the comfort of your tent.  

Afternoon Adventures

Spend your day rambling among the sanctuary’s salt marsh, sandy barrier beach, and pine woodlands. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk or an immersive nature experience, Wellfleet Bay's five miles of trails provide a peaceful retreat into Cape Cod's coastal beauty.

Wildlife Encounters

Commune with the Cape’s wild creatures in their natural habitats. The sanctuary is a haven for a diverse array of wildlife calling this landscape home, from fiddler crabs and shorebirds to deer and terrapins.

Stellar Sunsets

Savor a breathtaking blend of color as the sun dips below the horizon at day’s end. As you stroll back to your campsite, enjoy the magic hour after sunset as the landscape transforms, revealing a nocturnal world teeming with activity.

Twilight Discoveries

As daylight fades, the sanctuary comes alive with the sounds of the wind rustling leaves, the hooting of owls, the patter of foraging raccoons, and the rhythmic chirping of crickets. The peaceful escape from artificial light reveals the brilliant night sky and the subtle beauty of nature in the moonlight.

Request Your Camping Reservation